Top 5 Structural Steel Detailing Software 2025
In today’s construction world that is so speedy, structural steel detailing software is a component that is highly important in making accuracy better, error-free, and collaboration among architects, engineers, and fabricators easier. Speaking about the future of 2025, precision, automation and the integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM) is more important than ever.
Whether you are an experienced steel detailer or new to the industry choosing the right software can make or break your progress in your work.
Here are the Top 5 Structural Steel Detailing Software of 2025, sorted by features, usability, and industry adaptability.
1. Tekla Structures
Best For: Complex steel projects and full BIM integration.
Why It Stands Out:
Tekla Structures, by Trimble, remains the industry leader in 2025. It offers powerful modeling tools that handle everything from bolts and welds to assemblies and fabrication-level detailing. Its ability to integrate seamlessly with other BIM platforms and generate clash-free, constructible models makes it a top choice worldwide.
Key Features:
- Real-time collaboration via Trimble Connect
- Supports all structural materials, not just steel
- Automated drawing creation and reports
- Integration with CNC machinery
Tekla is ideal for large-scale infrastructure like stadiums, bridges, and high-rise buildings.
2. SDS/2
Best For: Automated steel detailing with engineering intelligence.
Why It Stands Out:
SDS/2, developed by ALLPLAN, shines in intelligent automation. It not only provides accurate steel detailing but also performs connection design and code checking in real-time. It reduces human error and saves countless hours on repetitive detailing tasks.
Key Features:
- Auto-generation of shop and erection drawings
- Integrated connection design
- Code compliance for multiple regions
- Clash detection and 3D visualization
Perfect for fabricators and detailers who prioritize speed and compliance.
3. AutoCAD with Advance Steel
Best For: Familiar workflows with enhanced steel capabilities.
Why It Stands Out:
Advance Steel is built on the AutoCAD platform, which many engineers are already comfortable with. It brings steel-specific features like parametric steel connections, drawing automation, and bill of material generation, all inside a familiar interface.
Key Features:
- 3D modeling tools for structural steel
- Automatic creation of BOMs and NC files
- Customizable steel libraries
- DWG compatibility
Ideal for firms that already use AutoCAD in their design process.
4. ProSteel (Bentley Systems)
Best For: Integration with structural analysis tools and plant design.
Why It Stands Out:
ProSteel integrates well with other Bentley software like STAAD.Pro and OpenPlant, making it a favorite for engineers working on plant structures and industrial facilities. It allows users to detail, fabricate, and visualize steel structures all within a single ecosystem.
Key Features:
- Parametric steel detailing
- Integration with STAAD and AutoPIPE
- Intelligent drawing production
- 3D modeling and visualization tools
Suitable for industrial projects, especially those needing coordination between steel and piping.
5. SolidWorks with Steel Detailing Add-ons
Best For: Precision modeling in mechanical-heavy structures.
Why It Stands Out:
Though traditionally used in mechanical design, SolidWorks has evolved to support steel detailing through third-party add-ons and plugins like SteelWorks and FrameXpert. Its parametric modeling and ease of use make it ideal for custom steel structures and small fabrication units.
Key Features:
- High-precision 3D modeling
- Add-ons for beam and connection libraries
- Weldment tools and frame analysis
- Drawing generation from 3D parts
Great for smaller firms needing high precision in custom designs.
Tabular Comparison for better understanding:
| Software | Best For | Key Features | Pro Tip |
| Tekla Structures | Large & complex BIM projects | Full BIM integration, automatic drawings, CNC-ready outputs | Ideal for skyscrapers, bridges, stadiums |
| SDS/2 | Automated detailing & connection design | Real-time connection checks, clash detection, engineering automation | Best for quick and accurate steel workflows |
| AutoCAD + Advance Steel | Familiar CAD workflows with steel tools | Parametric connections, DWG support, BOM generation | Suits teams already using AutoCAD |
| ProSteel | Plant design & industrial steel projects | Seamless STAAD integration, piping coordination, smart 3D modeling | Ideal for plant and structural engineers |
| SolidWorks + Add-ons | High-precision, small-scale structures | Weldment tools, frame modeling, 3D parts to drawings | Great for fabricators and mechanical designers |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right steel detailing software in 2025 depends on the scale of your project, your team collaboration needs and the integration preferences. While Tekla leads with its all-in-one qualities, SDS/2 is excellent for its speed, and AutoCAD Advance Steel is great for those who are already familiar with AutoCAD.
Whether you’re detailing a bridge, a skyscraper or an industrial plant these tools will help you ensure accuracy, efficiency, and quality in every beam and bolt.